Sheridan Smith has landed herself a role as the host of a new dog styling series for BBC One, Pooch Perfect.

The competition will see 10 pairs of stylists makeover beloved pets to be named the UK's Top Dog Stylist in what will be the actor’s first primetime presenting gig.

Smith said in a statement: "To combine my love of dogs with a brand new job presenting for the BBC was a match made in heaven! Everyone who knows me will understand that animals, and especially dogs are very special to me.

"I live at home with six dogs, so presenting a show dedicated to our four-legged best friends didn't take much consideration! I'm used to being on set with lots of actors, this time I can't wait to hang out all day with dozens of dogs. It is literally my dream job!"

The happy news comes after a difficult few years for Smith following her father's cancer diagnosis and subsequent death.

At the time, she was starring in a West End run of Funny Girl and had to take a two month break when her mental health deteriorated.

She later reflected on the troubled period her life, remarking: "I was totally terrified that I was going to come unstuck, that I couldn’t hold these feelings of insecurity in much longer without it coming to a head.

“My dad getting cancer triggered it, but it had been a long time coming.”